This bacterial flora can cause a premature birth

Physicians examine the connection between microbes and premature births

Researchers have now found that pregnant women who are at increased risk for preterm birth can be identified early by examining the microbes in their reproductive tract.

Researchers at the internationally renowned Imperial College London have found in their research that a study of the microbes in the reproductive tract of pregnant women can indicate whether those affected have an increased likelihood of premature birth.

The physicians published the results of their study in the journal "BMC Medicine".

If during pregnancy the composition of the microbes in the reproductive tract changes, this can lead to a premature birth. (Image: Sondem / fotolia.com)

Researchers are examining over 250 women for their study

The experts at Imperial College London examined the samples of swabs in 250 pregnant women. In addition, the samples of 87 participants with a premature membrane rupture were analyzed. The scientists came to the conclusion that subtle changes in the so-called vaginal bacteria before the 37th week of pregnancy can lead to premature birth. Of the 250 pregnant participants, a total of 27 women suffered a premature birth.

Results provide clues to the role of bacteria in preterm birth

"This study is one of the first to show that in almost half of pregnant women, an unbalanced vaginal microbiota occurs before premature abortion, providing further evidence for the role of bacteria in some premature births," explains study author Dr. David MacIntyre in a press release from Imperial College London.

In some subjects antibiotics could be helpful, in other participants, they were more harmful

"What matters is that our findings identify two different groups of women with a premature break. In one group, antibiotics may be useful and in the other group this treatment can actually be harmful, "adds the expert. Previous studies have already shown that the bacteria found in the vagina are less diverse in pregnancy, with an increase in the types of Lactobacillus bacteria normally being found.

What happens when the content of Lactobacillus bacteria decreases?

However, if the level of Lactobacillus bacteria decreases and the level of other bacterial species increases, this can lead to labor contractions earlier than expected for an expectant mother. The Lactobacillus bacteria can usually be found in the digestive system, the urinary system and the genital area of ​​the human body.

Changes in bacterial species can lead to sepsis in newborns

The observed changes in vaginal bacteria could also pose a health risk to mothers and their babies, potentially leaving newborns at risk of sepsis, the researchers explain. The results of the study may allow physicians in the future to provide pregnant women with the specific antibiotic treatment they need.

Further research is needed

"Our findings suggest that a more personalized approach, targeting only women likely to benefit from antibiotics, may prove more beneficial than the current approach," explains Dr. Richard Brown from Imperial College London. But further studies are needed to pinpoint the relationship between vaginal bacteria and premature birth. If this relationship is further confirmed, changes to the recommended treatment could be made. (As)